A two-day immersion for executives shaping the future of regional Australia.

Facilitated by Nigel Collin, this Masterclass will equip CEOs and executives with the strategic capabilities required to navigate complexity, influence systems, design impactful opportunities and lead transformative regional change.

The program harnesses the RAI Practice Continuum, Five Elements, and the Behaviour & Systems Change Model as executive frameworks, enabling leaders to drive region-led development at scale.

In Partnership

Regional Australia Institute (RAI) and La Trobe University have partnered to deliver a transformative masterclass for CEOs and Senior Executives.

Together, we are fostering a new generation of leaders who can drive economic, social, and environmental progress across regional Australia.

Program Purpose

Regional Australia is entering a period of significant transition. Economic modernisation, demographic change, infrastructure pressures, global uncertainty and technological disruption are reshaping the landscape.

Executive leaders must be prepared to:

• Operate confidently in complex, multi-actor systems
• Shape strategic opportunities through collaboration
• Understand and influence system behaviour and momentum
• Drive impact-driven transformation agendas across regions

This program provides the strategic mindset, tools and collective leadership experience required to meet this moment.

Strategic Facilitator

Nigel Collin, MBA - La Trobe University 

Nigel Collin is a leading expert in mindset, innovation and adaptability, and founder of the Game of Inches® methodology. His engaging, research-driven storytelling draws on Ingenious Oz case studies to show how small, practical steps drive sustainable growth. A CSP speaker, author and long-time industry leader, Nigel has built businesses, travelled Australia uncovering ingenious success stories, and helps organisations align grassroots ingenuity with strategy. He divides his time between Sydney and the NSW mid-north coast with his family.

Regional Thought Leader

Liz Ritchie - CEO, Regional Australia Institute  

Liz’s primary purpose at the RAI is to make a difference through providing leadership, engagement, information and connectivity. Heralding from country NSW, she understands the issues impacting regional Australia and has designed and executed programs across Australia to engage in economic and social issues affecting our regions.

Guest Speaker

Dr Catherine Ball - Scientific Futurist  

Dr Catherine Ball is an award-winning futurist, company director and bestselling author working at the intersection of emerging technology, sustainability and social impact. An Adjunct Professor with a global portfolio, she advises governments, enterprises and philanthropic organisations on projects spanning environmental protection, education and humanitarian innovation. A member of Australia’s Robotics Advisory Council, an XPRIZE visioneer and Global Brains Trust contributor, Catherine operates internationally with hubs in Singapore, London and Sydney.

Guest Speaker

Benny Callaghan - Leadership Educator and Certified Professional Coach (ACC)  

Benny Callaghan is a leadership educator and Associate Certified Coach (ICF) who specialises in helping people collaborate and lead through complex, high-stakes change. With more than two decades’ experience across government, industry and community contexts, his work spans systems facilitation, service innovation, program design and leadership coaching. Passionate about regional and rural Australia, Benny works closely with communities navigating environmental and climate-related change, including bushfire, flood and drought. Known for creating safe, grounded spaces for honest conversation, he partners with organisations such as Outward Bound Australia and the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation. 

Event Details

Date: 2-3 Jun 2026
Duration: 2 Days
Event location:

Day 1: The Boat House Restaurant, Canberra, ACT

Day 2: National Portrait Gallery, Canberra, ACT

Travel and Accommodation

We look forward to welcoming you to the Masterclass. Please note that participants are kindly asked to organise their own travel and accommodation for the duration of the program.

Transport

For your convenience, you may wish to organise transport via Uber, 13cabs (phone: 132227), or ACT CABS (phone: (02) 6280 0077). Each service offers reliable options to help you get around Canberra with ease.

Accommodation Options

We recommend the following nearby hotels for a comfortable stay:  

• Hotel Kurrajong – 8 National Circuit, Canberra, ACT 2600. Phone: (02) 6234 4444
• Hotel Realm – 18 National Circuit, Canberra, ACT 2600. Phone: (02) 6234 4444
• Hyatt Hotel – 120 Commonwealth Ave, Canberra, ACT 2600. Phone: (02) 6270 1234

The Masterclass is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts.